Denver – Davis Graham & Stubbs LLP has appointed Mark Champoux, Tess Hand-Bender, and Sam Niebrugge to join its Executive Committee, advancing the firm’s commitment to strategic growth, collaborative leadership, and developing the next generation of leadership.
The appointments also broaden representation on the Executive Committee from practice areas experiencing sustained client demand, including litigation, investigations, corporate transactions, and energy.
“Our Executive Committee plays a vital role in shaping the firm’s future while preserving the culture of client service and excellence that has defined Davis Graham for generations,” said Kristin Lentz, co-managing partner of Davis Graham. “Mark, Tess, and Sam are exceptional lawyers whose judgment, integrity, and commitment to our clients have earned the respect of their colleagues. We are delighted to welcome them to the committee and confident they will help guide the firm’s continued success.”
Mark leads the Davis Graham Trial & Appellate Group and serves as the firm’s ethics counsel. He advises companies nationwide in high-stakes commercial litigation, government investigations, and enforcement matters. He previously served as a senior official at the U.S. Department of Justice, bringing significant experience to clients navigating complex regulatory and compliance challenges. He currently serves on the Colorado Technology Association Board of Directors and the Colorado Symphony Board of Trustees.
Tess is a seasoned litigator whose practice focuses on complex commercial disputes across the telecommunications, energy, financial services, and real estate industries. She is also a member of the firm’s White Collar Defense & Investigations Group, where she represents clients in internal investigations and government enforcement matters. Tess is a member of the Executive Committee of the Colorado Lawyers Committee, the Board of Directors of the Colorado Judicial Institute, and chairs the Davis Graham DEI Committee and co-chairs the firm’s Women’s Network.
Sam leads the firm’s Energy & Mining Group and advises clients on complex acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures, and other strategic transactions across the energy and natural resources sectors. For many years, Sam has overseen the Davis Graham Partnership Selection Committee, contributing significantly to the mentorship and development of the firm’s associates. He currently serves as chair of the Lex Mundi Energy and Natural Resources Practice Group and of the Foundation for Natural Resources & Energy Law Site Selection Committee.
With their appointments, Davis Graham reinforces its commitment to the firm’s collaborative culture, core practice areas, and long-term vision, positioning the firm to continue serving clients facing their most complex legal and business challenges.